THE 5 BEST NEW SHOWS OF 2019 SO FAR
SEX EDUCATION
While some TV teens are sophisticated beyond belief, this British series depicts adolescence in all its cringeworthy awkwardness. That’s particularly true of Otis (Asa Butterfield), who follows in his mother’s sex therapist footsteps by counselling his classmates, despite having zero sexual experience himself. (On Netflix)
AFTER LIFE
In many ways, this six-part black comedy is classic Ricky Gervais: his character, recent widower Tony, says whatever is on his mind without filter, leading to classic put-downs and one-liners. But After Life is also more emotional than anything he’s done before as it grapples with depression and grief. (On Netflix)
THE CRY
The TV equivalent of a thrilling page-turner (not surprising since it’s an adaptation of the novel by Helen FitzGerald), this four-part miniseries centres on the disappearance of baby Noah, with everyone linked to the infant a suspect. Filmed in Australia and Scotland, its international cast is flawless. (On ABC iview)
CHERNOBYL
A dramatic retelling of the world’s worst nuclear accident, this HBO miniseries looks at the response by the Soviet government to the disaster at the Chernobyl power plant in 1986. Underscored by a creeping sense of dread, the five-part series has parallels in today’s era of climate change deniers. (On Foxtel)
DEAD TO ME
Brusque real-estate agent Jen (Christina Applegate) isn’t really a people person, but following the death of her husband in an unsolved hit-and-run accident, she bonds with Judy (Linda Cardellini) at a grief support group. Jen wants answers; when they come, they shock her – and viewers. (On Netflix)